Articles
Addressing Barriers to entry into international trade by SMEs in Zimbabwe
Mashizha, Margaret;
Gumbo, Lillian;
Chimwe, Eusebia
Annals of Management and Organization Research Vol. 4 No. 4 (2023): May
Publisher : goodwood publishing
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DOI: 10.35912/amor.v4i4.1563
Purpose: The study sought to establish strategies to address barriers to entry into international trade by SMEs in Harare. It was triggered by the need to increase the participation of Zimbabwean SMEs in foreign markets. Research methodology: The research study adopted an explanatory approach using a survey strategy and data was collected from 322 registered SMEs in Harare using questionnaires. Data was analysed using SPSS 27 to calculate descriptive and inferential statistics and Chi-square tests, correlation, and regression analyses were used to address the research questions. Results: Barriers to entry into international trade identified were a lack of managerial expertise and entrepreneurial skills and low advertising levels. The study recommends that SMEs increase the number of skilled personnel and develop SME management. SME management should also increase market knowledge and promote innovation to allow for SMEs to participate meaningfully in international trade. Limitation: The study was limited to SMEs operating in Harare only. It was quantitative and explanatory. Contribution: The study makes a significant contribution to the existing body of knowledge by bringing to the fore strategies that could enhance the international participation of SMEs, which are the backbone of economic growth in Zimbabwe.
Leveraging SMEs financial inclusion through agency banking in Zimbabwe
Mashizha, Margaret;
Gumbo, Lilian;
Sabawo, Ashley
Annals of Management and Organization Research Vol. 5 No. 3 (2024): February
Publisher : goodwood publishing
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DOI: 10.35912/amor.v5i3.1888
Purpose: The main purpose of this study is to examine the effect of agency banking on the financial inclusion of SMEs, determine factors that influence the adoption of agency banking by SMEs, and establish an agency banking model that can be adopted to improve the financial inclusion of SMEs in Zimbabwe. Research Methodology: The study uses a mixed-method approach and is explanatory. Questionnaires and informants were used as research instruments, with a random sample of 78 respondents and 10 purposively selected agents. Inferential statistics were used to analyze the data. Results: The findings shed light on the effects of agency banking on financial inclusion and impediments to financial inclusion, and identify the channels of agency banking being used most frequently. Factors that influenced the adoption of technology were also identified. Limitations: The study was limited to one population group and one locality, although financial inclusion should ideally include all population groups. Contribution: This study recommends a unique model that can be used to enhance financial inclusion through agency banking, which has been identified as a pillar of financial inclusion. Therefore, the results are useful to policymakers and future researchers.
The Adequacy of Cybersecurity in Financial Institutions in Zimbabwe
Mashizha, Margaret;
Kanengoni, Pestalos
International Research Journal of Business Studies Vol. 17 No. 3 (2024): December 2024 - March 2025
Publisher : Universitas Prasetiya Mulya
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DOI: 10.21632/irjbs.17.3.317-331
A well-protected cyber environment is virtually non-existent in the technical landscape of the 21st century, exposing financial institutions to risk. To preserve the well-being and trust of the public within financial systems, the financial sector needs a stable and robust cybersecurity system. This study sought to determine the causes and sources of cybercrime, the degree to which banks are aware of cybercrime, and to assess their understanding of cybersecurity and possible solutions to cyber threats. A sample of five commercial banks in Zimbabwe was surveyed and data was analyzed using descriptive statistics. Findings revealed low awareness of cybersecurity, the absence of anti-virus protection, and a cybersecurity framework. Further, the study established that financial institutions are not providing adequate financial support and training relating to cybersecurity. The study recommends investment in cybersecurity, training, and awareness campaigns to cultivate a culture of cyber alertness.
Conversational artificial intelligence (AI) and bank operational efficiency
Gumbo, Lilian;
Mashizha, Margaret;
Simon, Chosani;
Phiri, Phillipa
International Journal of Accounting and Management Information Systems Vol. 1 No. 2 (2023): August
Publisher : Goodwood Publishing
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DOI: 10.35912/ijamis.v1i2.1915
Purpose: The main objective of the research was to analyse the effects of conversational artificial intelligence (AI) on bank operational efficiency. The emergency of conversational artificial intelligence (AI) has revolutionised the way business interacts with its customers. Research methodology: The study employed a mixed- method approach where interviews and questionnaires were used to collect qualitative and quantitative data. A sample of 92 bank employees was drawn from ten Zimbabwean banks. Results: Conversational AI has a positive impact on banking operational efficiency. Specifically, conversational AI improves customer services by providing faster and more accurate responses to customer inquiries, reduces operational costs by automating routine tasks and improve workflow efficiency. Conclusion: Conversational AI significantly improves banking operational efficiency by automating routine tasks, enhancing customer service, and reducing costs. It streamlines processes and delivers accurate, real-time responses, reinforcing the value of its integration in banking operations. Broader research across regions and sectors is suggested to validate these findings further. Limitations: The study concentrated on the banking industry of one particular country. Contribution: The study makes a significant contribution in understanding the advantages of adopting conversational artificial intelligence in banking operations.
Facial Authentication As A Bank Security Measure In Zimbabwe
Mashizha, Margaret;
Kavhuru, Englon
Jurnal Ekonomi, Manajemen dan Perbankan (Journal of Economics, Management and Banking) Vol. 10 No. 1 (2024): Jurnal Ekonomi, Manajemen dan Perbankan (Journal of Economics, Management and
Publisher : STIE Indonesia Banking School
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DOI: 10.35384/jemp.v10i1.522
This paper reports on the findings of a research that was conducted in an endeavour to improve security within the banking sector. The research was triggered by an increase in the number of cyber-attacks on personal bank accounts resulting in the loss of huge sums of money and hence eroding bank confidence among customers. The main objectives of the study were to determine whether customers were aware of facial authentication as a bank security and to assess whether customers would accept facial authentication as a bank security measure. Further, the study was carried out to establish whether it was feasible for banks to implement such a biometric system as part of enhancing bank security and determine the extent to which customers are prone to cyber-attacks. Finally, the research aimed to outline the probable challenges that may be encountered in implementing facial authentication in the banking system. A survey of 70 bank employees and 200 bank customers were selected from two commercial banks using a purposive sampling method. Data was collected using interviews, questionnaires, and an experiment conducted to establish the vulnerability of customers to cyber-attacks. Findings revealed that customers and employees were aware of facial authentication as a measure of bank security and it was a preferred method for bank security in this digital transformation age. Customers were highly prone to attacks as they just clicked links to websites without a second thought. The technology was recommended for the possibility of improving bank security and hence boosting customer confidence and enhancing the security of customer data. However, whilst it was feasible for banks to implement the technology as they have adequate finances, likely challenges to be encountered included a lack of expertise to set up the system and a lack of knowledge on its use amongst customers. The study recommended banks consider facial authentication due to its advantages over other non-biometric methods. The technology is safer especially as it reduces human contact and does not depend on the need for customers to memorise passwords or codes nor does it require them to possess something like smart cards. Keywords: Facial authentication, Password, Bank Security, Personal identification number, customer confidence
Addressing Barriers to entry into international trade by SMEs in Zimbabwe
Mashizha, Margaret;
Gumbo, Lillian;
Chimwe, Eusebia
Annals of Management and Organization Research Vol. 4 No. 4 (2023): May
Publisher : goodwood publishing
Show Abstract
|
Download Original
|
Original Source
|
Check in Google Scholar
|
DOI: 10.35912/amor.v4i4.1563
Purpose: The study sought to establish strategies to address barriers to entry into international trade by SMEs in Harare. It was triggered by the need to increase the participation of Zimbabwean SMEs in foreign markets. Research methodology: The research study adopted an explanatory approach using a survey strategy and data was collected from 322 registered SMEs in Harare using questionnaires. Data was analysed using SPSS 27 to calculate descriptive and inferential statistics and Chi-square tests, correlation, and regression analyses were used to address the research questions. Results: Barriers to entry into international trade identified were a lack of managerial expertise and entrepreneurial skills and low advertising levels. The study recommends that SMEs increase the number of skilled personnel and develop SME management. SME management should also increase market knowledge and promote innovation to allow for SMEs to participate meaningfully in international trade. Limitation: The study was limited to SMEs operating in Harare only. It was quantitative and explanatory. Contribution: The study makes a significant contribution to the existing body of knowledge by bringing to the fore strategies that could enhance the international participation of SMEs, which are the backbone of economic growth in Zimbabwe.
Leveraging SMEs financial inclusion through agency banking in Zimbabwe
Mashizha, Margaret;
Gumbo, Lilian;
Sabawo, Ashley
Annals of Management and Organization Research Vol. 5 No. 3 (2024): February
Publisher : goodwood publishing
Show Abstract
|
Download Original
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Original Source
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Check in Google Scholar
|
DOI: 10.35912/amor.v5i3.1888
Purpose: The main purpose of this study is to examine the effect of agency banking on the financial inclusion of SMEs, determine factors that influence the adoption of agency banking by SMEs, and establish an agency banking model that can be adopted to improve the financial inclusion of SMEs in Zimbabwe. Research Methodology: The study uses a mixed-method approach and is explanatory. Questionnaires and informants were used as research instruments, with a random sample of 78 respondents and 10 purposively selected agents. Inferential statistics were used to analyze the data. Results: The findings shed light on the effects of agency banking on financial inclusion and impediments to financial inclusion, and identify the channels of agency banking being used most frequently. Factors that influenced the adoption of technology were also identified. Limitations: The study was limited to one population group and one locality, although financial inclusion should ideally include all population groups. Contribution: This study recommends a unique model that can be used to enhance financial inclusion through agency banking, which has been identified as a pillar of financial inclusion. Therefore, the results are useful to policymakers and future researchers.
Conversational artificial intelligence (AI) and bank operational efficiency
Gumbo, Lilian;
Mashizha, Margaret;
Simon, Chosani;
Phiri, Phillipa
International Journal of Accounting and Management Information Systems Vol. 1 No. 2 (2023): August
Publisher : Goodwood Publishing
Show Abstract
|
Download Original
|
Original Source
|
Check in Google Scholar
|
DOI: 10.35912/ijamis.v1i2.1915
Purpose: The main objective of the research was to analyse the effects of conversational artificial intelligence (AI) on bank operational efficiency. The emergency of conversational artificial intelligence (AI) has revolutionised the way business interacts with its customers. Research methodology: The study employed a mixed- method approach where interviews and questionnaires were used to collect qualitative and quantitative data. A sample of 92 bank employees was drawn from ten Zimbabwean banks. Results: Conversational AI has a positive impact on banking operational efficiency. Specifically, conversational AI improves customer services by providing faster and more accurate responses to customer inquiries, reduces operational costs by automating routine tasks and improve workflow efficiency. Conclusion: Conversational AI significantly improves banking operational efficiency by automating routine tasks, enhancing customer service, and reducing costs. It streamlines processes and delivers accurate, real-time responses, reinforcing the value of its integration in banking operations. Broader research across regions and sectors is suggested to validate these findings further. Limitations: The study concentrated on the banking industry of one particular country. Contribution: The study makes a significant contribution in understanding the advantages of adopting conversational artificial intelligence in banking operations.
Addressing Barriers to entry into international trade by SMEs in Zimbabwe
Mashizha, Margaret;
Gumbo, Lillian;
Chimwe, Eusebia
Annals of Management and Organization Research Vol. 4 No. 4 (2023): May
Publisher : goodwood publishing
Show Abstract
|
Download Original
|
Original Source
|
Check in Google Scholar
|
DOI: 10.35912/amor.v4i4.1563
Purpose: The study sought to establish strategies to address barriers to entry into international trade by SMEs in Harare. It was triggered by the need to increase the participation of Zimbabwean SMEs in foreign markets. Research methodology: The research study adopted an explanatory approach using a survey strategy and data was collected from 322 registered SMEs in Harare using questionnaires. Data was analysed using SPSS 27 to calculate descriptive and inferential statistics and Chi-square tests, correlation, and regression analyses were used to address the research questions. Results: Barriers to entry into international trade identified were a lack of managerial expertise and entrepreneurial skills and low advertising levels. The study recommends that SMEs increase the number of skilled personnel and develop SME management. SME management should also increase market knowledge and promote innovation to allow for SMEs to participate meaningfully in international trade. Limitation: The study was limited to SMEs operating in Harare only. It was quantitative and explanatory. Contribution: The study makes a significant contribution to the existing body of knowledge by bringing to the fore strategies that could enhance the international participation of SMEs, which are the backbone of economic growth in Zimbabwe.
Leveraging SMEs financial inclusion through agency banking in Zimbabwe
Mashizha, Margaret;
Gumbo, Lilian;
Sabawo, Ashley
Annals of Management and Organization Research Vol. 5 No. 3 (2024): February
Publisher : goodwood publishing
Show Abstract
|
Download Original
|
Original Source
|
Check in Google Scholar
|
DOI: 10.35912/amor.v5i3.1888
Purpose: The main purpose of this study is to examine the effect of agency banking on the financial inclusion of SMEs, determine factors that influence the adoption of agency banking by SMEs, and establish an agency banking model that can be adopted to improve the financial inclusion of SMEs in Zimbabwe. Research Methodology: The study uses a mixed-method approach and is explanatory. Questionnaires and informants were used as research instruments, with a random sample of 78 respondents and 10 purposively selected agents. Inferential statistics were used to analyze the data. Results: The findings shed light on the effects of agency banking on financial inclusion and impediments to financial inclusion, and identify the channels of agency banking being used most frequently. Factors that influenced the adoption of technology were also identified. Limitations: The study was limited to one population group and one locality, although financial inclusion should ideally include all population groups. Contribution: This study recommends a unique model that can be used to enhance financial inclusion through agency banking, which has been identified as a pillar of financial inclusion. Therefore, the results are useful to policymakers and future researchers.